Novak Conversions Adapter 462R-3-6 Kit

Adapting SM465 transmissions to Jeep & IH Dana 18 small bore transfer cases, 6 spline output. (10 spline shaft also available.)

Adapting the GM Muncie SM465 to the Jeep Dana Models 18 & 20 Transfer Cases

Our SM465 to Dana Spicer 18 & 20 conversion is one of our most popular manual shift transmission conversion assemblies, combining the strength, refined design, broad engine compatibility, and excellent gearing of the GM Muncie 465 four-speed transmission with two of the great Jeep transfer cases.

Product & Features

The Adapter

This compact Muncie 465 adapter provides a combined transmission and adapter length of only 13". The adapter itself is machined from T6 aluminum alloy, featuring a heavy cross-section.

Rear Mount Provision

This transfer case adapter's has an integrated mount base, ready to accept our industry standard urethane isolator mount, available for purchase below.

The Novak-manufactured 6 or 10 spline option output shaft is machined from premium alloy steel, heat-treated for hardness and strength and ready for installation into the SM465 transmission and then the D18 or D20 input gear attaches directly to it, using the terrific strength of the SM465 rear main bearing for support.

Contents

The kit contains aluminum adapter housing, transmission output shaft, seal, transfer case to adapter gasket, transmission to adapter gasket, fastening hardware, steel mounting base, and instructions.

Applications & Compatibility

Transmission Versions

Any version of the SM465, including 2wd, 4wd early, and 4wd late styles are compatible with this adapter assembly. For the purposes of this conversion, there are no disadvantages between the 2wd vs. 4wd versions of this transmission.

Mainshaft replacement is largely straightforward. Good work is within reach of the careful home mechanic and instructions are included. We recommend at least our basic gasket & seal kit and the SM465 the main shaft bushing set. Better yet, this is a good time for a more thorough master rebuild and update of the transmission.

Many installers consider one of our complete Novak remanufactured and upgraded transmission packages. These professionally-built transmissions are stress-tested, delivered to your door and ready to bolt in. 

Transfer Case Versions

All Jeep models of the Dana Spicer 18 and Dana Spicer 20 transfer cases are compatible with this adapter assembly. IH versions of these transfer cases are also compatible. The correct input bore and spline count must be observed. This adapter is not suitable for the Ford Bronco transfer case as it is of an entirely different design in attachment and drop.

Transfer Case Input Gear

Our adapter shaft is splined for six spline input gears.

• Six-spline gears (shown, right) are most common and usually found behind Jeep T84, T90, T86, T89, T98, T18, T15 & T150.
• The ten-spline version was only available on the 1966 - 1974 transfer cases against the Jeep T14 transmission
• Factory Jeep TH400 to Dana 20 combinations had a fifteen-spline input gear, which must be replaced by a compatible six spline version.
• International Harvester Dana 20's that had the TF-727 automatic had a 23-spline input gear, which must be replaced by a compatible six spline version.

Consult our informative Dana gears interchange chart if necessary.

All Warn and Saturn type overdrives are compatible with this conversion as long as the spline count is correct. We do not have replacement gears for the overdrive version.

Transfer Case Bore Size

The diameter of the transfer case center input locating bore will be either 3-5/32" or 4".

• Most Dana 18's have a 3-5/32" bore, including those found against the T84, T90, T89 or T98.
• Some Dana 18's have a 4" bore, including those found against the T86 & T14 transmissions (Buick V6 engines), 1966-1971.
• All Dana 20's have a 4" bore, regardless of the transmission they were joined to.

Jeeps

This combination is compatible with most Jeeps as this is one of our shortest four-speed combinations. Some shift tunnel modifications may be needed due to the increased size of the transmission, but can be cleanly done. 

Engines

Any engine that can be made to work with the chosen transmission will work with this adapter. We have available parts to adapt several versions to various engines. See the SM465 information page linked below for that discussion.